By MICHAEL HIRSCH

Special to The Press

South Whitehall commissioners approved the retirement of K-9 Kyra from service with the township police department at their Dec. 4 board meeting.

Kyra, certified in patrol work and explosive detection, began her service with the department in July 2010.

In 2020, she transitioned from explosive detection to narcotics detection to meet departmental needs.

Throughout her career, Kyra contributed to numerous multi-jurisdictional operations, including the apprehension of a wanted fugitive.

After years of dedicated service, the police department, along with her handler, Sgt. Colin Beaumont, decided to retire Kyra to enjoy her remaining years.

Sgt. Beaumont has requested to adopt Kyra, ensuring she spends her retirement in a loving home.

The police department expressed gratitude for Kyra’s contributions to community safety and requested official approval for her retirement and adoption.

In other matters, the board set water and sewer rates for 2025.

The water rate will see no increase next year, despite an increase from the Lehigh County Authority.

There was a 4-percent increase for the sewer rate, based on the Sewer Rate Study conducted in 2024.

The board approved maintaining the current refuse fee and increasing the income thresholds for the low-income and senior refuse discount.

The board thanked the administration for their work in keeping sewer rates steady and maintaining budget stability.

Finance Department Director Tricia Dickert presented the 2025 budget, highlighting the budget workshop meetings and the process of approving the budget.

Commissioners commended the administration of their diligent work in presenting a balanced budget with no tax increase.

The board approved the budget unanimously.

Chris Peischl provided an update from the public safety meeting and emphasized the importance of residents contacting township staff with concerns.

He said a number of residents shared a concern about speeding on Blue Barn Road that ended with the death of a 21-year-old.

Peischl said if there is a concern, residents are welcome to email anyone on the commission.

“That’s what our job is,” he said.